Baroreflex failure following radiotherapy for head and neck cancer: A case study

Abstract

The baroreflex functions via carotid stretch receptors to maintain optimal perfusion pressures. Disruption of this reflex, in the chronic phase, presents insidiously and is characterized by severe labile blood pressure (BP). This condition is commonly referred to as the syndrome of baroreflex failure (BRF). BRF is an important clinical problem that may develop following radiation therapy (RT) or other treatments for head and neck cancer. It is important for radiation oncologists to be aware of this diagnosis as they are often in the best position to diagnose BRF early in its development. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the presenting signs and symptoms, diagnostic work-up, treatment, and possible causes of BRF to aid in the diagnosis of this rare condition. Herein we report a case of BRF following RT for head and neck (H-N) cancer and provide a critical review of the currently published literature discussing this association.